SEARCY, Ark. — The Delta State University Women's Basketball team showed resilience and plenty of bright spots on Saturday afternoon, battling on the road inside Rhodes-Reaves Field House before falling 64–49 to no. 10 Harding University.

After trailing 18–3 through ten minutes, Delta State flipped the momentum with a dominant second quarter. The Lady Statesmen outscored Harding 21–12 in the period, shooting 10-of-15 from the field and forcing six turnovers. Kennedee Shelton sparked the surge, pouring in 14 points on 6-of-7 shooting for the game, including a pair of threes that helped DSU cut the deficit to just six at halftime.

Alyse Holliman contributed 7 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists while helping anchor DSU's defensive pressure. Olivia Allen added 8 points and 2 assists, attacking the lane and igniting the second-quarter run. Sophomore guard Jariyah Williamson totaled 7 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals, steadying the offense and providing play making throughout all four quarters.

Delta State's bench continued to make an impact in this young season as they delivered 24 points as Bramyia Johnson supplied 6 points and a team-high five rebounds, while Daniela Gintere and Anna Cera added energy on both ends. DSU also forced 14
Harding turnovers and collected 11 steals, showing significant improvement in defensive activity.

Harding used a late third-quarter push to create separation, but the Lady Statesmen continued to compete defensively and on the glass, finishing with 30 rebounds and holding the Bisons to just two made three-pointers.

Delta State (2–3) now turns its attention to Gulf South Conference play as they will face off with a second straight nationally ranked opponent in the Lady Bulldogs from Union University Thursday evening in Walter Sillers Coliseum.